Joe Mullen will take over as head coach of Adelaide United for the club’s 2010 Asian Champions League campaign after the AFC ruled that Aurelio Vidmar was ineligible.
Adelaide and FFA received letters from the AFC this week stating that under its regulations, Vidmar would not be able to fulfil his duties as he does not possess an AFC ‘A’ Licence.
Vidmar had been trying to achieve this licence, but his club coaching commitments had meant as failed to complete the course and has only achieved a B licence.
Mullen, the former Qantas Socceroo and Adelaide’s National Youth League coach, has the relevant qualifications and will lead the club during the Champions League.
“Joe Mullen is qualified as an AFC/FFA ‘A’ level accredited coach, and has already completed Part 1 of the AFC’s Pro Diploma coaching certificate and is due to complete Part 2 in August this year.”
Adelaide United CEO Sam Ciccarello said.
“While Joe is qualified as a have the title of Head Coach, Aurelio, who is in his third year coaching the club and took the club to the Final of the AFC Champions League in 2008, will continue his role as senior coach.”
Vidmar will look to complete the course after the Champions League group stage, while Mullen said he is happy to fill in.
“I’m happy to help the club out and add my input in any way I can and in any capacity, so to help in this tournament will be great,” Mullen said.
Adelaide United’s first match of the AFC Champions League Group Stage is against the Pohang Steelers on February 24 at Hindmarsh Stadium.
